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Gore

Photo Gore District Council

Fly Fishing in Gore

Gore (Maruawai), Southland’s second largest town, was originally a site for fording the Mataura River and became known as Longford. When the town was settled in 1862 it was renamed in honour of Thomas Gore Browne, who was the governor of New Zealand between 1855 and 1861. With modern facilities and city advantages in a beautiful rural setting, Gore is a drawcard for many visitors.

The town lies on the banks of the Mataura River, which divides it into two parts, and is the “Brown Trout Capital of the World”, drawing large numbers of national and international trout fishers seasonally. Gore also has many stunning public parks and gardens which are perfect for family picnics and sport and recreation. The impressive Gore Multisports Complex, comprised of an aquatic centre, an ice rink and an indoor sports stadium, offers sporting and fitness activities and events all year round.

Gore is well known for its connection with country music, having hosted the annual national country music awards for 36 years. The town also presents the impressive Eastern Southland Art Gallery and revells in its colourful illicit whiskey-making past and farming heritage at various historic attractions, such as the Hokonui Moonshine Museum, Gore Historical Museum, and the Hokonui Pioneer Village and Museum.